Assignment task: In an initial post of approximately 150 words, respond to the prompt.
Yvonne Johnson is a 45 year old woman recently diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis and she searches the Internet for information about her ongoing symptoms.
Identify ways to determine whether an Internet site is trustworthy and valid when you are seeking medical information. Also discuss any negative experiences you might have encountered when a patient or someone you know has used the web for "medical advice."
In your response posts, discuss other options, not mentioned by your peers that could be used to assist in determining what medical information websites are valid and reliable. Include APA references
Discussion Response #1
As Mrs Johnson is looking at websites to find more information about Myasthenia Graves I would recommend the following are a few critical considerations that must be made when evaluating the validity and quality of medical information found online: First you should look for websites connected to reputable organizations like medical societies, universities, government health agencies such as Center Disease Control or National Institute of Health (CDC, NIH), or reputable healthcare providers.
Websites such as these with a track record of affiliation are likely to provide accurate and trustworthy information. Then you should check the credentials and expertise of the writers or contributors. Ideally, medical information should be written or assessed by healthcare experts with relevant training in the field, such as doctors, nurses, or researchers. Be cautious while visiting websites that don't reveal the author's identity or when you come across anonymous writers. Make sure the data is current and is updated on a regular basis. It is crucial to make sure that the information appropriately reflects the most recent evidence-based practices and guidelines, given the quick evolution of medical knowledge. Look for dates of publication or information about the most recent content review or revision. Seek out websites that provide content based on evidence, which is supported by peer-reviewed literature, clinical studies, or scientific research.
Look for citations, references, or links to reputable sources to confirm the accuracy and dependability of the information offered. Analyze the website's disclosure policies and transparency. Respectable websites should be open about their revenue streams, advertising policies, editing processes, and any possible conflicts of interest.
Openness makes it easier for consumers to understand the fundamental causes of the content and evaluating the objectivity of it (Webmd, n.d.).
Finally analyze the website's usability and overall design. Generally speaking, trustworthy medical websites have well-organized, intuitive designs with accessible menus, efficient search functions, and accessibility features. A polished appearance might help users feel more credible and trustworthy.
I have had plenty of family members look to the web for medical advice one of which my mother looked up information about her diabetes, and she would order different supplements that were counter conflict what meds she was already taking that were prescribed by a medical doctor after we have looked over her medication and the holistic things that she would purchase online she was wasting money and she was putting her health in harm as she was taking medication that she should not take according to the medication that she had been prescribed. Doing this made her sick and made her nauseous and it put her in danger of her sugar levels actually be higher normal. As we help her understand what medication she should take, and she is now aware that she would let her doctor know before she takes the holistic medication for her health benefits. Looking at websites that have good information and quality information is imperative for the safety of our family and patients safe such as Mrs. Johnson.
Reference:
WebMd (n.d.) Better information better health. https:webmed.com
Discussion #2:
When looking for health-related information on the internet, it's important to assess the credibility and accuracy of the sources. Trustworthy sites usually have endings like .gov, .edu, or .org, since these domains are usually linked to government bodies, educational institutions, and well-established groups (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2017). Websites associated with well-known health organizations such as the Mayo Clinic or the American Medical Association are also reliable. Verifying the author's qualifications, the date of the information, and if the site cites research that has been reviewed by experts can aid in evaluating its credibility (Stevenson University, 2023). It's important to be wary of websites that endorse products, have eye-catching headlines, or are not clear about where their information comes from.
Worries frequently emerge when individuals depend on unreliable websites for health guidance. For instance, a person could misunderstand their symptoms or health conditions from unreliable sources, resulting in unnecessary anxiety or, on the other hand, downplaying the seriousness of their illness. I've come across cases where individuals postponed getting medical help because they were misled by false or inaccurate information on the internet, potentially leading to severe health issues. It's crucial to direct patients, such as Yvonne Johnson, towards trustworthy sources and motivate them to talk about any worries with their healthcare provider to guarantee that they get correct and safe advice.
References:
Stevenson University. (2023). How to Identify Reliable Information. Stevenson University.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services n. (2017). Health Information You Can Trust. NIH News in Health.